Lead Formulation Scientist

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Formulation Scientist for our client in Mahikeng, North West. You will guide a team to design, develop, and optimize formulations for crop protection and enhancement products, translating lab concepts into viable commercial offerings.

The role demands a PhD in a related field and at least seven years in formulation development, with hands-on leadership and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science or related field with focus on formulation science.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in formulation development, preferably agrochemical or specialty chemicals.
• Proven expertise in developing diverse formulations (suspensions, emulsions, granules).

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of complex chemical formulations for agricultural applications.
• Oversee laboratory experiments, scale-up activities, and pilot plant trials for new formulations.
• Characterize formulation properties using techniques (particle size, rheology, stability).
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and identify innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with analytical, biological efficacy, and regulatory teams to meet product goals.
• Mentor and guide junior formulation scientists.
• Prepare technical reports, patents, and presentations for stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of advances in formulation science and agricultural technology.

Skills

Leadership

Formulation development

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the agricultural sciences sector, is seeking an innovative and experienced Lead Formulation Scientist to join their dedicated Research & Development team in Mahikeng, North West. This role is pivotal in the development and optimization of novel formulations for crop protection and enhancement products. The Lead Formulation Scientist will guide a team of scientists, drive formulation strategy, and ensure the successful translation of laboratory concepts into viable commercial products. This position requires a strong background in physical chemistry, colloid science, and a passion for developing cutting‑edge solutions for agriculture. The role offers a hybrid work model, combining remote strategic planning with essential on‑site laboratory and pilot plant activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of complex chemical formulations for agricultural applications.
• Oversee laboratory experiments, scale‑up activities, and pilot plant trials for new formulations.
• Characterize formulation properties using a range of analytical techniques (e.g., particle size analysis, rheology, stability testing).
• Troubleshoot formulation challenges and identify innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with analytical, biological efficacy, and regulatory affairs teams to ensure product development goals are met.
• Mentor and guide junior formulation scientists, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment.
• Prepare technical reports, patents, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in formulation science and agricultural technology.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with a focus on formulation science.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in formulation development, preferably within the agrochemical or specialty chemical industries.
• Proven expertise in the development of various formulation types (e.g., suspensions, emulsions, granules).
• Strong understanding of physical chemistry, interfacial science, and material characterization techniques.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and the ability to mentor scientific staff.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication and presentation skills for technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Experience with pilot plant operations and process scale‑up is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, an annual performance bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a retirement fund, and life insurance. We provide significant opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement. This hybrid role, based in Mahikeng, North West, offers a stimulating work environment and the chance to shape the future of agricultural innovation.